Stats Show Most Alton Crime Falling

Crime in most categories is on the way down in Alton, but some are up, so it is a good news / bad news report on crime in 2013, according to the Chief of Police. Theft and Motor Vehicle Theft numbers are up slightly from last year, while assault and battery is down 8%. Murders fell from 3 in 2012 to one last year. Overall, there was a decrease in reported crimes by 3%.

Alton Police Chief Jake Simmons says an effort to combat motor vehicle thefts will include the use of bait cars this year.

Click here for Simmons' comments

Simmons says many of the thieves are coming to Alton from North St. Louis to commit their crimes, and reiterates that they are not welcome in the city.